Unsure whether or not you need to invest in a coat for your dog? Here are a few signs that you should!

Our canine companions still like to spend time outside during the colder months, but should they be wearing protective clothing such as coats and sweaters? In most cases, the answer is no. Most dogs have enough fur to keep them warm outside when the temperature drops. That said, some dogs do require extra protection from the cold air! When deciding on whether to put protective clothing on your pup, you should consider the following: your dog’s size, breed, and the outside temperature.

First, consider his breed

Dogs get cold just like people do. But some dogs, like Labradors, Huskies and German Shepherds have thick coats that do a great job of protecting them against colder weather. However smaller and short hair breeds, like Greyhounds, Whippets and Chihuahuas find it harder to retain body heat and would benefit from extra protection when in colder climates.

How much time does he spend outside?

The temperature outside and the duration your dog spends outdoors should also be considered when deciding whether or not your pooch needs a jacket or sweater. If the temperature dips into the negatives, or if there’s lots of snow, dogs will benefit from an extra layer of warmth if they’re not used to the cold weather.

If your dog will be outdoors for 10 minutes or less, then he won’t need a jacket unless it’s extremely cold and he’s displaying signs of discomfort.

Age also plays a role

Another factor that will begin to affect all dogs’ ability to stay warm is old age. Older dogs will naturally struggle to regulate their body temperature, so protecting them with an extra layer of insulation, such as a quilted jacket or a sweater can help to encourage warm blood flow around their body.

Cold weather is a nightmare for dogs who suffer from stiff joints, as the low temperatures can cause muscles to tighten up, increasing pressure and pain in inflamed joints. This can cause your dog to experience pain while moving and he may even want to stop walking altogether.

Watch his body language

It’s important to monitor your dog’s body language to determine if he needs a coat. Some dogs will lift their paws when they get cold, refuse to walk or shiver. Once wrapped up, other dogs may feel a bit hot and bothered and no longer require a coat.

Content provided by tails.com.